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Over-the-Counter Birth Control Pill Boosts Access, Study Finds

8/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A study from Oregon Health & Science University indicates the first over-the-counter birth control pill in the U.S. enhances contraceptive access.
There is a 31.8 percentage point increase in users who previously lacked contraception.
Beneficiaries include adolescents, uninsured individuals, and racial minorities.
The OTC pill costs approximately $50 for a three-month supply, which may still be a barrier for some.
Findings emphasize the need for expanded contraceptive access amid ongoing reproductive health challenges.

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Story summary

A study from Oregon Health & Science University indicates the first over-the-counter birth control pill in the U.S. enhances contraceptive access.
There is a 31.8 percentage point increase in users who previously lacked contraception.
Beneficiaries include adolescents, uninsured individuals, and racial minorities.
The OTC pill costs approximately $50 for a three-month supply, which may still be a barrier for some.
Findings emphasize the need for expanded contraceptive access amid ongoing reproductive health challenges.